AN APPEAL to mark the 30th anniversary of the Valley Parade tragedy in Bradford has received its first major boost within hours of being announced in the Telegraph & Argus.

The objective is to raise £300,000 which will be used to finance the work of the plastic surgery and burns research unit at the University of Bradford, which was established as a direct result of work to help those injured in the blaze.

Fundraising work has gone on in Bradford to support the unit over the last three decades, but in April will be receive national assistance from Premier League and Football League clubs.

However, the Premier League has already announced a donation of £25,000 which will sit alongside cash already raised this season to give a running total of more then £37,000 so far.

Football clubs across the country will hold a minute's silence before home games on Saturday, April 25, next year in memory of those who died and they have been invited to join fund raising work for the burns unit.

However, the Premier League stepped in early with its own offer of support.

Premier League chairman Peter McCormick said “The Bradford Fire was one of the most terrible tragedies ever to strike English football.

"It will be forever remembered by all football fans not only for the loss of the life but also for the many acts of bravery by the emergency services and the fans themselves.

"All Premier League clubs have agreed to observe a minute’s silence on April 25, 2015 in solidarity with Bradford City FC as they prepare to play their last home game of the season.

"In addition the Premier League will help the fundraising for the club’s chosen charity, the Bradford University plastic surgery and burns research unit, beginning with a donation of £25,000 and continuing with support for Bradford City’s fundraising efforts throughout April.

"We would also wish to use this occasion to re-state our commitment to the safety of fans, who should never again be exposed to the kind of risks that led to the Bradford tragedy.”

Greg Dyke, chairman of the Football Association, said: "It is important that football comes together to mark the tragedy and remember those who lost their lives.

"The Football Association sends its sincere condolences to those families and friends affected by the tragedy.

"The FA welcomes the Football League and Premier League's commitment for other clubs to join Bradford City FC in their minute's silence ahead of their final home game of the season on April 25.

"The FA will also mark the anniversary at Wembley where we will also encourage fans to support fundraising for the plastic surgery and burns research unit at Bradford University."